Reflecting on my trip to Kenya. This past week has changed how I understand bitcoin.
It probably justifies a full length podcast, exploring many of the observations and experiences, but a few quick things to share:
1. Most people I spoke with used Bitcoin before learning about it or understanding it. Kenya implemented digital currency pre 2010 with m-Pesa, so the hurdle to using bitcoin is very low. Some folks do not have identification or access to traditional banking, and when they find out bitcoin has lower fees than m-Pesa it becomes obvious.
2. Women are the most effective at community building. As @Bitcoin Biashara said during our interview, if you want to build community, involve women. In the US bitcoin is a male dominated space and I think we could benefit from taking a page out of their book.
3. Outside support goes a long ways in East Africa. Organization like @Blink Wallet @Fedi Trezor and of course, @My First Bitcoin have supported events and projects leading to tangible, measurable impact. From a link purchasing @EcoBitz a hand truck to transport glass bottles, to @Fedi providing accessible internet and helping to build physical infrastructure… @Afribit Kibera educating young women… there’s just so much to be stoked about.
In the coming days, I will be sharing more and the film we shot will be released in mid June.
If you want to attend the premiere, get tickets to the unconference in Prague hosted by my first bitcoin. One day before @BTC Prague
It probably justifies a full length podcast, exploring many of the observations and experiences, but a few quick things to share:
1. Most people I spoke with used Bitcoin before learning about it or understanding it. Kenya implemented digital currency pre 2010 with m-Pesa, so the hurdle to using bitcoin is very low. Some folks do not have identification or access to traditional banking, and when they find out bitcoin has lower fees than m-Pesa it becomes obvious.
2. Women are the most effective at community building. As @Bitcoin Biashara said during our interview, if you want to build community, involve women. In the US bitcoin is a male dominated space and I think we could benefit from taking a page out of their book.
3. Outside support goes a long ways in East Africa. Organization like @Blink Wallet @Fedi Trezor and of course, @My First Bitcoin have supported events and projects leading to tangible, measurable impact. From a link purchasing @EcoBitz a hand truck to transport glass bottles, to @Fedi providing accessible internet and helping to build physical infrastructure… @Afribit Kibera educating young women… there’s just so much to be stoked about.
In the coming days, I will be sharing more and the film we shot will be released in mid June.
If you want to attend the premiere, get tickets to the unconference in Prague hosted by my first bitcoin. One day before @BTC Prague
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